PRESIDENT GEORGE WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY, 2026

In this presidential proclamation, President Donald J. Trump designates February 16, 2026, as a reserved holiday commemorating the 294th birthday of George Washington. Set against the backdrop of the United States’ 250th anniversary year, the proclamation honors Washington as the "father of our country" and a foundational hero of American liberty.Key Themes and Highlights:Military and Revolutionary Leadership: The President traces Washington’s career from a Lieutenant Colonel in the French and Indian War to his leadership of the Continental Army. He highlights Washington’s resolve during the "Christmas of 1776" crossing of the Delaware and the brutal winter at Valley Forge, leading to the ultimate victory at Yorktown.Architect of the Republic: The proclamation honors Washington’s role in presiding over the Constitutional Convention and his unanimous election as the first President. It specifically credits him with setting the precedent for the peaceful transfer of power by voluntarily relinquishing his office after two terms.Moral and Spiritual Foundation: A central focus of the message is Washington’s insistence that faith and morality are "indispensable" to the nation’s prosperity. The President cites Washington’s Farewell Address to emphasize that virtue is a "necessary spring of popular government."A "Unifier and Tactician": Washington is described as a man of "incorruptible conscience" whose visionary leadership remains "imprinted on the soul of our Nation."The Next 250 Years: President Trump uses the occasion to look forward, pledging to build a future that honors Washington’s legacy and restores the United States as "one glorious Nation under God" as it enters its next quarter-millennium.Conclusion:The proclamation serves as a call for national gratitude for Washington’s life of public service. It frames Washington’s courage and resolve as the "birthright of every American citizen" and a necessary guide for the country’s continued pursuit of freedom and sovereignty.